THERE is a chance to earn and learn about quarrying at Clee Hill.

Heavy building materials company Hanson UK is seeking 11 go-getting school leavers to join its apprenticeship scheme.

The firm’s Leadership, Education and Development (LEAD) programme offers the first steps towards a career in the minerals sector, as well as the chance to secure industry qualifications.

One of the vacancies is at Clee Hill.

To apply for the three year programme, which combines practical hands on experience with a distance-learning Foundation degree in Minerals Extractive Technology from the University of Derby, would-be apprentices need a minimum of two A levels, five GCSEs and a full driving licence*.

“Our LEAD programme, first launched in 2012, has proved to be an ideal launching pad for a successful career,” said Karen Wright, Hanson’s learning and development manager.

We now have former LEAD programme participants employed across the business in a diverse range of roles from cement process engineer and kiln production engineer to assistant quarry manager.

“Earning while you learn is a fast-track way of gaining experience and qualifications without accumulating the debt now associated with traditional university courses. Plus, on completion, you have a ready-made career with Hanson, on which you are already a few rungs up the ladder.”

LEAD participant, Fiona Bradshaw, who is in her first year, said she has enjoyed the opportunity to learn as she earns

“It’s great to know that on finishing LEAD, not only will I have a Foundation degree and no debt, but I will also have three years’ of work under my belt – plus the option to secure a BSc in Minerals Management, also funded by Hanson,” she said.

The closing date for applications is noon tomorrow (March 17). Shortlisted candidates will have the chance to visit Clee Hill quarry on a familiarisation insight day as part of the recruitment process.

For more details on the application process visit: http://www.hanson-careers.co.uk/en/apprenticeships